Introduction

Dermatitis refers to any inflammation of the skin. It can be caused by a number of different things, depending upon the particular dog’s living environment and immune system. Dermatitis is a particularly frustrating condition for owners of companion dogs, because it can be caused by so many different things, many of which will never be identified. Allergies to parasite bites, and allergies to certain types of foods, grasses, detergents or plants, are some of the leading causes of dermatitis in dogs. Some dogs develop dermatitis as a reaction to exposure to a fungus or from exposure to high temperatures and humidity. Whatever the cause, dermatitis can present with mild to very severe clinical signs in domestic dogs.

Symptoms of Dermatitis in Dogs

The hallmark of dermatitis in dogs is intense itchiness, which may or may not fluctuate seasonally. Owners of affected dogs may notice some or all of these symptoms:

• Intense itchiness, scratching, licking, pawing and/or biting at areas of skin, often seasonal
• Skin redness (erythema), often seasonal
• Skin thickening
• Oily skin (seborrhea)
• Foul-smelling skin
• Rubbing the head on the floor or ground
• Inflammation of paws, legs, tail base, flank, neck and/or armpit areas
• Hair loss in affected areas (alopecia)
• Hot spots; raw, weeping, painful sores, usually due to self-trauma
• Red raised skin eruptions or bumps
• Dry, scaly, crusty skin
• Dandruff
• Ear infections
• Foul odor from ears

Without treatment, canine dermatitis is typically progressive, regardless of the cause. However, while the causes of canine dermatitis are often elusive, treatments are available to help calm the symptoms of this frustrating condition.

Dogs at Increased Risk

Acute moist dermatitis can occur in any breed. German Shepherds, Rottweilers, St. Bernards and Golden Retrievers seem to be predisposed to developing this condition. Dogs living in hot, humid climates, and long-haired breeds, are also at increased risk.